Statement from the Fort Wayne Urban League on the weekend’s FWPD Officer Involved Shooting.
News release from the Fort Wayne Urban League:
Fort Wayne, Indiana (June 24, 2024) – While the Fort Wayne Urban League is deeply saddened and deeply concerned about the shooting death of Linzell Parhm, our goal is to work together to create solutions so that we never have another incident like this in the future. Our heart breaks for the family of the victim and for all of Fort Wayne for this tragedy. Every shooting death is horrendous, and this is no exception. Linzell was a graduate of South Side High School, a licensed barber, and worked as a Summer Youth Camp counselor for many years; his family, those he served, and organizations he worked with are simply heartbroken. The Fort Wayne Urban League is encouraged by the statement of Mayor Sharon Tucker and accepts the promise of a full investigation as outlined in her statement that was released yesterday. “I want the residents of Fort Wayne to know that I understand the concern that is being felt in our community tonight. When a life is lost, we mourn. I continue to be in communication with Chief Caudill regarding last evening’s officer involved shooting. The investigation is being handled by multiple law enforcement agencies. Through this important process, we will learn the details of what occurred. Public safety is a vital and difficult service. It’s critical that we come together as residents of our great city and support one another.”
“The Fort Wayne Urban League has long been an advocate for equity, fairness, and for transparency in situations that raise questions of social justice. The social media release of the video surrounding the stop and subsequent death of Linzell Parhm has raised questions and concerns for many in the community that the Fort Wayne Urban League serves. Like so many citizens, I was deeply disturbed by what was depicted in the video. Our condolences go out to Linzell’s friends and family as we mourn his tragic death and acknowledge his life and legacy. While we recognize the gravity of these circumstances, we also understand that body cameras of this incident have not yet been released and that this one video does not provide all of the information necessary to draw a final conclusion or plan of action,” stated Arrington.
Fort Wayne Urban League is committed to leading conversations, meaningful actions and addressing the concerns of our citizens around the concept of police service and community trust. Our ultimate goal is to create a sense of partnership between both the Fort Wayne Police Department and the people they are sworn in to serve and protect.
We call on a thorough investigation of the incident. We ask that the community stay calm while this incident is investigated. The Fort Wayne Urban League will assist in any way possible to assure that answers to this shooting are secured.
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